Pat Summitt, an indomitable force in the world of basketball, redefined the landscape of women’s sports with her unparalleled achievements and unwavering dedication. Born on June 14, 1952, in Clarksville, Tennessee, Summitt’s journey from a farm girl to a coaching legend is a testament to her tenacity and passion for the game. As the head coach of the University of Tennessee Lady Volunteers from 1974 to 2012, she transformed the team into a powerhouse, capturing eight NCAA national championships and securing 1,098 career wins, the most in NCAA Division I basketball history at the time of her retirement. Her coaching prowess earned her numerous accolades, including the Naismith Basketball Coach of the Century award and induction into the Basketball Hall of Fame.
Pat’s influence extended beyond the court; she was a mentor and role model who fiercely advocated for women’s athletics. Her commitment to excellence and her players’ holistic development cemented her legacy as a pioneer in women’s sports.
In 2011, she was sadly diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease and passed away in 2016 aged only 64. Pat’s impact continues to resonate, inspiring generations of athletes and coaches alike. Her legendary status is not merely defined by her records but by the indelible mark she left on the sport and the countless lives she touched.
If you haven’t read it, we highly recommend you read the incredible book Sum It Up: A Thousand and Ninety-Eight Victories, a Couple of Irrelevant Losses, and a Life in Perspective, Pat’s autobiography, and one that inspired the creation of the Female Coaching Network itself.
Below, we are sharing with you an excellent article written by Cody Royle, Author of Second Set Of Eyes, The Tough Stuff, Where Others Won’t and Former Head Coach of AFL Team Canada.
With Cody’s permission, we are posting the article in full for you to enjoy this fantastic insight into how one of the greatest coaches of all time picked her team to win Gold in LA 1984.
To Sign-up to Cody’s blog Coach Craft and read about more legendary coaches such as Bill Walsh, Arrigo Sacchi and Jim Gavin- CLICK HERE
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